Mascherano future uncertain

Liverpool boss Roy Hodgson has appealed to midfielder Javier Mascherano to get in touch to discuss his future.

Hodgson cast further uncertainty over the Argentina captain's Anfield career on Friday when he conceded he had been unable to contact him since he took charge more than a fortnight ago.

Mascherano, 26, has been linked with a move to European champions Inter Milan this summer, and Hodgson said: "I have tried to contact Javier. I have left him voice messages and sent him texts but had no reply."

He added: "To be fair to him, that's not unusual because he's had a tough World Cup and I believe he's gone back to Argentina.

"It's not always easy to get in touch with people. I have tried to reach him to make clear I am happy to talk with him at his convenience."

Mascherano is contracted to Liverpool until 2012 and any deal could cost a club such as Inter as much as £30million.

Hodgson has at least managed to meet inspirational striker Fernando Torres following his return from the World Cup.

Torres has been touted as a potential target for the likes of Chelsea, Manchester City and Barcelona for fees upwards of £50million.

Hodgson has made clear his determination to keep the 26-year-old, who is hoping to shake off a groin injury in time for the new season.

"As far as we are concerned he is a Liverpool player and we want him to remain a Liverpool player," Hodgson said. "He is not for sale and we don't welcome any offers for him. We want to keep him."